Precious Blood Parish, Monmouth Beach, is planning a two-day celebration of their 125th anniversary June 4-5 on the parish grounds.

A dance will be held the evening of June 4 featuring beer, wine, appetizers and the music of the Seven Bridges Band, a Nashville-based Eagles tribute band. The June 5 celebration will begin with an 11 a.m. Mass under a tent outdoors, followed by a barbeque with all the fixings. There will be music and games for all to enjoy.

Precious Blood began its journey of faith as a mission church of Star of the Sea in Long Branch which drew local residents and workers in the large hotels in Monmouth Beach. Through diligent fundraising, the workers raised funds to build a church of their own, and Precious Blood Parish was dedicated June 21, 1891. Over its 125 years, it has grown to a parish of over 1,200 families and draws Catholics from Monmouth Beach, Oceanport, Sea Bright and other shore towns.

Father Robert F. Kaeding, pastor, noted, “An anniversary like this is a wonderful time to reflect on how blessed the parish community has been. Precious Blood has been more than a beautiful building, more than a place for Sunday morning Mass. It has been a community of faithful people graced by God’s presence. This is something to celebrate!”

Admission to Saturday’s dance is $20 per adult. The barbeque is $15 for adults and free for children under 12 years old. All current and former parishioners are invited to attend. For more information, contact the parish office at 732-222-4756.

Precious Blood Parish is located at 72 Riverdale Avenue, Monmouth Beach.